Historic Towns of Warren Country, Ohio, By Judy Worley: When planning a vacation many are often drawn to the most popular cities and attraction. Yet, if we venture along a unknown path we can discover many unique sites and attractions like the Village Green Exhibit and Shaker Gallery as Ms. Worley did on her recent trip to Warren County, Ohio.

Warren County's historical towns will enrich your mind with information and artifacts of the past that lead you to the present. Adventure around the area and learn how the Underground Railroad through their safe houses survived through a very tough era. Walk through the Shaker exhibits at the museums and see how their community inventions helped to shape the way we live in the present. Learn how the Pioneers made headway into the new Frontier. Or visit a place where you feel the energy of the spirits as you venture amidst a prehistoric Indian hilltop enclosures built over 2000 years ago. These historic Warren county towns offer something for everyone including museums, walking tours, outdoor activities, antique specialty shops, art galleries, and overnight accommodations at an old historic Inn, a beautiful Victorian Bed & Breakfast or Hotel.

Lebanon, Ohio

Warren county has an abundance of fascinating history for everyone to explore. The Historical Society Museum located in Lebanon Ohio is one of the stops that will be sure to intrigue you with information about the area and the different era’s that once were. It is the host of fascinating exhibits on early American ranging from prehistoric times through the Victorian age and beyond. Most notable are the museum’s extensive paleontology and archaeology collections, along with its Village Green Exhibit and Shaker Gallery which features one of the largest collections of Shaker artifacts found anywhere. There is also a local history and genealogy library that houses a vast quantity of manuscripts and reference material. You can also visit the Glendower State Memorial located on a hill overlooking downtown Lebanon, it is one of the finest examples of residential Greek Revival architecture found in Ohio.

The Golden Lamb Inn

After learning about the Lebanon area take a stroll through town and enjoy the many specialty shops. There are over 25 antique shops, some quaint coffee shops and some really great restaurants to enjoy. One of the restaurants that is a must to visit is The Golden Lamb Inn. It is the oldest Inn & Restaurant in Ohio and really neat to see along with having a great Gift Shop. The history will defiantly catch your attention and is a fascinating place to check out on the inside, the food is pretty awesome too.

Another great places to visit while in Lebanon is Turtle Creek and The Lebanon Railroad. This is great for taking the kids on a train ride. What can be more fun than experiencing the nostalgia of rail travel? Featured in September is Thomas the Tank Engine for some family fun and adventure.

The Workshops of David T. Smith is another place I found to be really enjoyable to visit and highly recommended. His workmanship is really unique in style with all different kinds of really neat gadgets that you'll find hidden inside his hand crafted pieces.

He has a variety of reproductions with museum quality in his furniture, pottery, chandeliers, and country kitchens. David has been crafting reproductions for over 25 years and has created some amazing pieces. And last but not least, don't forget the ice cream. The Village Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant is also on my list of places to visit while in Lebanon. The Village Ice Cream Parlor is a great Parlor with the old time décor and an old time flair. Its also has some yummy Ice Cream with a lot of different flavors and some really delicious sandwiches too.

Read Part 2 of the Historic Towns of Warren Country, Ohio, featuring Oregonia...

Warren County is Ohio’s Largest Playground!

Find sample itineraries, a calendar of events, and exclusive hotel package deals by calling 1-800-433-1072 or visiting Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau’s website!